The parking lot was packed with animals to honor the centuries old tradition.

"It's a way to acknowledge the animal and show their gratitude to it, which is difficult to do," said Rich Bucci, principal at Seton Catholic Central. "A blessing is something you can do for your pet."

More than 100 people showed up and lined up their pets up to be blessed individually.

"It's a good feeling to see people come out for something like that," said Rosemary Sinko of Binghamton. "You know, there's so much cruelty to animals in this world. It's nice to see people that love their animals."

This is the third year the school hosted the blessing.

Bucci said they plan on blessing animals next year on the Sunday closest to St. Francis' Feast Day.